Research for Strategic Development Assignment
Your research must achieve the learning outcomes at the standards provided. It must be related to a topic associated with strategic business development.
You must prepare a portfolio of evidence which includes all the work completed for the following tasks.
Task 1 – Formulate a Research Proposal
In this section of the portfolio you should:
- Consider and identify a valid area for research to support the strategic development of a business area
- Explain the aim, scope and objectives for a chosen area of research
- Formulate a specific research proposal
- Establish success criteria for the achievement of the research proposal
- Prepare a project plan that identifies key milestones and critical pathways.
Extension activities:
To gain a merit grade you must:
- Justify the research area you have chosen which will support the achievement of an aspect of strategic business development.
LO1 AC 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5
1M1
Task 2 – Carry out the research using different research methodologies
In this section of the portfolio you need to:
- Complete a review of different literature sources identifying those which are most appropriate for your chosen area of research
- Use different research methodologies to gather data from primary and secondary sources. The data must be sufficient in order to ensure you can make valid conclusions
Extension activities:
To gain a merit grade you must:
- Justify the research methodologies chosen
LO2 AC 2.1 2.2 2M1
Task 3 – Presentation of Research Findings
In this section of the portfolio you must prepare a report that presents all of your research findings. This must be presented in an appropriate format for the target audience.
In the report, you must:
- Provide a comprehensive explanation of the purpose, methodologies, findings and recommendations.
- Reference all sources using a recognised system.
- Use the information you have collected to justify conclusions and recommendations.
Extension activities:
To gain a merit grade you must:
- Respond orally to questions on research findings.
To gain a distinction grade you must:
- Analyse how the findings of your research can be used in a specific strategic business context.
LO2 AC 3.1, 3.2, 3.3
3M1
3D1
Task 4 – Reflective Log
On completion of your research project, you are to prepare a reflective log which contains an evaluation of the skills you used while undertaking the research.
The reflective log must include:
- A review of your own skills using personal reflection and feedback.
- Recommendations on ways to improve your personal skills while undertaking research.
Extension activities:
To gain a merit grade you must include the following in your reflective log:
- A plan to improve your own research skills.
To gain a distinction grade you must:
- Implement the plan and assess the impact on your own personal progress.
